A Dance with Darkness: My Thoughts on Serial Killer Games by Kate Posey
Debut novel!? Are you kidding me, Kate Posey!? When I picked up Serial Killer Games, I had high hopes, and let me tell you, it completely exceeded them. This atmospheric blend of heartfelt and macabre caught my attention right from the start, fitting perfectly with my rather eclectic taste in literature. It was a whirlwind of emotions—I laughed, cringed, and yes, even shed a few tears. And for someone who rarely cries over a book, that’s saying something!
The story centers around Dolores dela Cruz and Jake Ripper, a pairing that just oozes intrigue. They meet at the office, where Jake is a temp—and let me tell you, Dolores’ gut feeling about him being suspicious is spot on. I mean, can you blame her? He’s got that classic “trust me, I’m definitely not a serial killer” vibe going on, which makes Dolores’ combative spirit all the more fascinating to follow. Their relationship isn’t just a typical romance; it’s a complex dance of suspicion and attraction that kept me guessing throughout.
For the first 40% of the book, I genuinely had no clue where it was heading—a delightful uncertainty that made the experience all the more thrilling. Posey deftly weaves together elements of romance, mystery, and psychological tension, all while dodging conventional tropes. I loved how this smartly constructed narrative unfolded slowly, capturing my heart in a way that felt refreshingly authentic.
The writing style is where Posey truly shines. The pacing is deliberate, allowing us to really understand the characters instead of rushing into steamy encounters or predictable plot points. And while some readers might be expecting more spice given its romantic label, I personally found it gratifying that Posey chose to focus on the characters’ growth and development rather than just delivering sultry scenes. What I adore most is how the characters felt real—both Dolores and Jake grapple with their inner struggles, making them so relatable. As a fan of dark fiction and complex stories, this delicate balance struck a chord with me.
One of my favorite aspects of the book is Posey’s ability to delve into the darker psychology of her characters without villainizing them. It’s a refreshing take on love and misunderstanding, showcased beautifully through their interactions. Instead of embodying traditional dark romance tropes, this narrative echoes the struggles of being seen and understood in a world that often feels isolating.
Overall, Serial Killer Games is a captivating debut that not only kept me entertained but also went deeper than I initially expected. Its complexity isn’t overwhelming; instead, it makes the reading experience incredibly enjoyable. For those like me who appreciate a mix of dark fiction and contemporary romance that prioritizes character exploration over gratuitous steam, this book is an absolute must-read.
Thank you to Berkley for providing me a copy—I’m already looking forward to more works from Kate Posey. I have a feeling we’re in for a long and beautiful friendship in the world of literature! If you’re keen on a read that dances on the line between the darkly romantic and the intricately human, this is the book for you.